If you’re an avid fan of The Oprah Winfrey Network then I hope that you watched Orpah’s Lifeclass yesterday because it inspired me so much that I have to share what I learned!Anyone who knows me knows that I love Oprah so I watch all the specials but last night’s Lifeclass really hit home with me and I want to share some of the key pointers that were shared by world renowned pastor, author and thought leader – Bishop TD Jakes who was talking about the power of our instincts.

At first I was a little indifferent about the topic, until he started talking. There is so much that we deal with on a daily basis and trying to birth the vision of your dreams is a tough journey that many will not finish because of challenges, fears and whatever else may stop them including what others have to say. But Bishop Jakes said something that pierced my heart.

“When you are a giraffe and you receive criticism from turtles, they are reporting the view from the level they are on.”

I was SCREAMING at my television screen when I heard that! Whew!!!!! How many of us have had that problem? And just because they are giving their “turtle-view” doesn’t mean that they are wrong it just means that they are turtles so how can they relate to the vision of a giraffe who stands at about 20 feet tall? And you were meant to be tall! I dealt with that plenty of times and still do, but it can be challenging in a world where settling for ordinary is normal and going after extraordinary is considered “crazy.” When you are built to be tall you will endanger your position if you lower your perspective. So please keep this is in mind next time a turtle is sharing their “view.”

He also talked about getting around people who have your same rhythm which means to surround yourself with people who get you, understand how you work and who will be a supportive system for how you choose to execute your vision. If you have no desire to live your life working for someone else until you retire and you want to build an empire as an entrepreneur then you are going to clash perspectives with those who are comfortable with a standard 9 to 5 job. If you like to share ideas at 9pm because that’s your creative peak then build a team a people who understand that and are similar because if you don’t your passion can come across as “too much” or “abusive.”

Now when someone makes negative or hurtful comments about your vision or does something to offend your cause then you have to learn to forgive them. For one thing, they are turtles and you are a giraffe. Furthermore, forgiveness is a command but trust needs to be earned. You have to use discernment in what you choose to share with people. I have learned that it’s best to tell certain people things when the time is right or not tell them at all. Other people will try to impose their fears on you so it’s vital to know when you are talking to a turtle or a giraffe.

Which one will you be?